I suspect you are referring to leaving a peg in the middle, when cutting off a large branch or trunk section. The purpose being to aid in healing larger scars and preventing them from desiccating too quickly while establishing blushing some callus on the perimeter. I would combine that approach with a stepped reduction when you decide to remove the larger sacrifice.
For best timing I prefer to remove large sacrifice side branches and apical leaders after the spring candles after extended and the needles are just standing away from the candle. This takes advantage of the growth spurt at the beginning of the growing season in multi flush pines.
First, cut off the larger sacrifice leaving a two inch stub.
Second return in 2 to 3 months and carve down to the level for healing but leave the centre as a peg comprising approximately 1/3 of the area in the centre of the scar. ( I use cut paste on the perimeter and peg)
Third after the perimeter is healing well ( say 1 or two years later than complete the removal of the peg. ( I renew the cut paste at this point as well )
Hope the thought help.